Cardiovascular Risk of Low Triglyceride Levels

High triglyceride counts are commonly associated with cardiac risk factors, but low triglyceride counts have no known association with cardiac risk. Low triglyceride counts may be indicative of other non-cardiovascular conditions, but are not necessarily considered detrimental on their own.

Triglycerides

• Triglycerides are generated from fats taken in through foods. They contribute to energy production as well as cell regeneration. Excessive triglycerides convert to low density lipoproteins and can increase risk for atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack. Low triglyceride counts can be indicative of other health issues such as malabsorption syndrome, hyperthyroidism or malnutrition.

Malabsorption Syndrome

• Malabsorption syndrome occurs when the digestive tract is unable to absorb key nutrients from food during the digestive process. This results in low triglyceride counts but can also lead to malnutrition.

Hyperthyroidism

• Hyperthyroidism increases the body’s metabolism to an extent where nutrients are quickly used, resulting in low triglycerides. Increased appetite with rapid weight loss occurs along with elevated heart rate.

Malnutrition

• General malnutrition drops triglyceride counts considerably. A lack of overall nutrient intake can be a serious health risk affecting organ function. A diet too low in fat can also impede energy production and organ function.

Conclusions

• Low triglyceride counts may not be cause for concern alone, and have no direct bearing on cardiovascular risk. But they can often indicate other disease states contributing to low counts. Most physicians will test for mitigating factors should you present with low triglyceride counts.